Topic: Diarrhea, loose stools

The most important interaction between patient and doctor is the medical history. Through listening to the story of the patient’s illness and asking relevant questions, a physician may often make a diagnosis, or at least begin to understand the nature and location of the complaint. A few easy steps can help make this process more efficient leading to prompt, more precise diagnosis and treatment. Revised January 2012.

Colonoscopy is currently our most effective means of reducing the incidence of colon cancer, but only slightly over one-third of eligible persons elect to have a colonoscopy. With the inconvenience and expense of colonoscopy incurred, one should expect and receive a thorough examination. This article outlines some way to ensure that your colonoscopy is performed correctly and thoroughly.

How safe is it to control diarrhea with loperamide for an indefinite period of time? The information in this fact sheet was adapted from the Clinical Corner Section of Digestive Health Matters, 2009; vol. 18. No. 2. Questions and answers in IFFGD’s Clinical Corner are available free online to IFFGD members.

Can probiotics prevent traveler’s diarrhea? Can loperamide be taken at the same time as taking a probiotic? The information in this fact sheet was adapted from the Clinical Corner Section of Digestive Health Matters, 2009; vol. 18. No. 2. Questions and answers in IFFGD’s Clinical Corner are available free online to IFFGD members.

Experiencing symptoms of diarrhea, urgency, incontinence, and rectal bleeding can be a significant source of stress that calls for consultation with a physician. Those individuals with a history of prior radiation therapy exposure need to disclose this to their doctor. Radiation induced symptoms must be considered as a potential source.

Dumping syndrome describes a collection of symptoms that occurs when food is emptied too quickly from the stomach, filling the small intestine with undigested food that is not adequately prepared to permit efficient absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. Symptoms include nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, dizzy spells, weakness, and cold sweats either with or after eating. Medical management involves dietary changes, and at times, the use of medications.